What’s in a Name

The podcast explores the unique naming conventions in Zimbabwe, particularly the use of seemingly random English words as names. It traces the history of this practice back to British colonialism, where English names became a necessity for navigating the new racial hierarchy. As Zimbabwe moved towards independence, the freedom to experiment with language led to the adoption of bold and creative names, blending English and Shona influences. Examples like "Learnmore," "God Knows," and "More Precision" highlight this cultural phenomenon. However, the podcast also considers how globalization and social media may threaten this tradition, as some Zimbabweans are now opting for more common international names to avoid ridicule abroad. The podcast concludes with a call to embrace these unique names as a vital part of Zimbabwe's identity and history.